Japan seeks to boost presence in Brunei

WITH the Brunei-Japan relationship already standing on solid foundation following decades of cooperation in various areas of development, the Japanese Embassy last night stood firm in its commitment towards leveraging on the already established ties between the two nations, expressing interest in bolstering its presence in the country.

In her speech during the celebration of the Japanese Monarch’s 81st birthday that took place at the Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong, Ambassador Noriko Iki assured that, “We would like to further contribute to the diversification of the economy of Brunei by making the best use of Japanese technologies.”

As she addressed guests comprising VIPs including Minister of Communications, Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar and spouse, the ambassador added that investments by Japan “will certainly lead to the strengthening of the economic relationship between both countries.”

Following the financial benefits that such a partnership can bring to both states, it was also added that maintaining a cultural relationship between the people of Japan and Brunei is also very important.

The current initiatives by way of developing people-to-people relations include the series of events under the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Programme (SSEAYP) of which, pointed the ambassador, “Has made a significant contribution to mutual understanding and trust between Brunei and Japan,” with a history that has included hundreds of young men and women from across the Sultanate.

In quoting the Malay proverb that translates as ‘United We Stand, Together We Fall’, the ambassador highlighted that, “I believe the sufficient development and prosperity of Japan and Brunei will come to be only when both countries bear in mind the position of the other,” in that, “We should pursue prosperity for both countries under strong ties.”

With thirty years under the Japan-Brunei friendship belt, the Japanese Embassy here in the Sultanate has celebrated this milestone accomplishment in the forms of gestures ranging from sponsoring events to the manufacturing and sale of the $30 Silver Proof Coin to mark the three-decade landmark.

“These events would not have been successfully held without the cooperation of the government of Brunei, Bruneian and Japanese companies concerned, Japanese associations in Brunei, Bersatu, and those who were involved,” she said as she expressed her gratitude for the support that embassy has been given.

As the final event to commemorate the 30-year anniversary, the Japanese Embassy has organised the ‘ONE ASIA Joint Concert 2014 – AUN J Classic Orchestra’ that will feature collaborative pieces between the people of Japan and Brunei to be held at the International Convention Centre to take place tonight.